Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his comments. The Human Rights Act, as the Minister implied, is particularly important in regard to dealing with sensitive and contentious legacy issues.

As we approach the marching season, we should take note of the fact that all Parades Commission determinations are subject to the European Convention on Human Rights as interpreted in the Human Rights Act. A repeal of the Human Rights Act would have a devastating effect on the work of the commission and its determinations and guidelines.

The European Court of Human Rights, through the Human Rights Act, has had a substantial impact on peace in Northern Ireland, and it is that court which has held successive British Governments to account for countless human rights violations. Therefore, it is a very important body, and full participation in it by the British Government, particularly from the point of view of Northern Ireland, is absolutely essential.

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